Removal of both spark plugs for valve clearance?

[cycleit2008]

I apologize if this has already been addressed. I am doing a valve check/adjustment on my 2009 R1200RT. Both sides of the engine have two spark plugs, do they both have to come out to check/adjust the valves? Why would the lower one need to be removed?

 

[pglaves]

The only reason I know of for removing a spark plug to adjust valves is to eliminate compression to make it easy to turn the engine to top dead center. Thus, one per cylinder should be sufficient.

 

[cycleit2008]

Thanks PGlaves

Thanks, I was hoping that was the answer.

 

[drneo66]

I assume you've found the most-excellent guide in the Tech Library?

https://forums.bmwmoa.org/showthread.php?35445-HEXHEAD-Tech-R1200X-Valve-Adjustment-All-Years

 

[time2ride]

Make sure you use a thin wall socket on a cold engine when removing the spark plugs. Despite having read several threads on people getting the socket wedged in the engine case, I guess I prefer to learn by experience. Some have cracked the engine case, others large mechanic bills and the rest lots of scraped knuckles, choice words and many prayers

 

[51797]

I would always remove them all to insect/replace as necessary. I was always surprised at how nasty the lowers looked.

Frank

 

[drneo66]

Plus, it's always best to remove the electrical connection from the coil before you remove the coil. Otherwise, you set yourself up to snap off some of the brittle plastic of the coil-part of the connection. Not like I've ever done that...